The HVAC systems in our homes are complex machines that work hard for us throughout the most extreme Ohio weather, and the level of skill necessary to work on them can seem high at times.
Because of this, some homeowners can be tempted to consider trying to reduce these costs by hiring an unlicensed repair person that might charge a lot less.
And while this might sound like a reasonable way to save money, we must remind homeowners that the type of work a lot of these people perform comes with its own costs, as there’s a hidden price tag on all substandard work when skilled labor is required.
Incorporate these hidden costs with the liability risks, safety hazards and warranty problems that coincide and it becomes crystal clear why the experts say you shouldn’t do business with an HVAC contractor that isn’t state certified.
To better illustrate the “Dangers of Hiring an Unlicensed HVAC Contractor,” our licensed experts here at Monroe Heating & Air put together the following list:
Poor Craftsmanship
Our technicians at Monroe Heating & Air undergo extensive testing, training and hands-on skill assessments that go above and beyond the standard NATE-certification we require. We keep these requirements in place to guarantee that our team members are using the “Best Practices” in the business.
However, customers who venture out and hire unlicensed contractors are forced to go off the person’s word, which can run thin in times like these. In general, the people who lack NATE-certification charge less because of their lack of experience. In other words, their level of skill isn’t the best. If their best guess on something misses the mark, it’ll cost you a lot more later on with other problems that can cause damage or full system failure. In any case, doing business with a reputable company that’s not only NATE-certified, but also guarantees their work like us, is the best way to prevent these things from going from bad to being worse.
Injuries & Other Liabilities
If an individual is doing something as complicated as HVAC work without their license, it’s not uncommon for them to be doing it without insurance either. On the other hand, certified contractors are more likely to carry liability insurance and worker’s compensation coverage. At Monroe Heating & Air, we ensure all our technicians have the maximum insurance coverage, which we consider non-negotiable.
Whenever someone who isn’t insured works on something and it’s on your property, you are liable for what happens. As such, if they have any accidents or sustain injuries on the job, it could end up costing you a lot more than the original problem.
Warranty Risks
On top of the risks and hidden costs associated with lack of skill and licensure, hiring a contractor who lacks certification has another risk that some homeowners don’t find out about until it’s too late. Because the manufacturers of HVAC equipment, as a general rule across the board, require their customers to use only NATE-certified technicians perform the work on their equipment, hiring someone who lacks this certification will make any and all parts warranties null and void. As a result, if something goes wrong and you hired someone who wasn’t NATE-certified, you have to pay for parts and repairs out of pocket.
Safety Hazards
Last but most certainly not least, substandard workmanship won’t merely affect your comfort and finances. It can also put you and your loved one’s safety at risk. If electrical work is done in the process and the wiring isn’t performed correctly, it can cause an electrical fire. If work is performed on a gas furnace by some discounted repair person, a gas leak could cause carbon monoxide poisoning or a fire. Needless to say, these latter two possibilities, although remote, could be deadly in extreme cases.
Don’t risk it! Pay to have it done right!
If you need assistance with any sort of home heating or cooling issue and you’re looking for a company that’s licensed, insured and affordable, call the licensed and NATE-certified HVAC service technicians at Monroe Heating & Air today at (513) 540-4890, or schedule an appointment now by clicking here!
